East Ayrshire secures status as official Fairtrade area

The Fairtrade Foundation made the announcement this week in recognition of the efforts of the local Fairtrade steering group, which has been making efforts in promoting Fairtrade to consumers, businesses and community groups.

Without exception, it is the most widely recognised ethical mark worldwide and I’m delighted East Ayrshire has been recognised as a Fairtrade area.”

Mr Sim said that the group would now be redoubling its efforts “to spread the message that Fairtrade offers a great deal for local businesses and groups, while ensuring that farmers and communities thousands of miles away get a fair price for their goods and products”.

Adam Gardner, the Fairtrade Foundation’s communities campaigns manager, said: “We are delighted to welcome East Ayrshire to the Fairtrade movement which now boasts more than 1800 communities worldwide, taking practical steps to making a fairer world trade system a reality.

“Thanks to the support of the public and campaigners, an increasing number of farmers in developing countries are now selling their products on Fairtrade terms, bringing them a stable income and the chance to trade their way out of poverty.”

To achieve Fairtrade status an area must show that it meets criteria i including that the local council has passed a resolution of support and has agreed to serve Fairtrade tea and coffee in its canteens and at its meetings.

And at least four Fairtrade products must be available in local shops and eateries. For more information visit www.fairtrade.org.uk